Ballerina (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The John Wick universe has become synonymous with stylized action, impeccable world-building, and thrilling fight choreography. With Ballerina (2025), directed by Len Wiseman and starring Ana de Armas as the deadly and graceful Eve Macarro, we finally see a female assassin claim center stage. This high-octane spin-off explores revenge, legacy, and survival — all wrapped in the cold, brutal beauty of the Ruska Roma.
Plot Summary: Between Wick’s Chapters
Set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and Chapter 4, Ballerina follows Eve Macarro, a ballerina turned assassin trained by the same Ruska Roma organization that once shaped John Wick himself. After her father is murdered by a mysterious sect leader, Eve embarks on a personal vendetta. Along the way, she uncovers deep layers of conspiracy within the assassin world, facing brutal trials that test both her physical prowess and emotional resilience.
Though the narrative is predictable at times — relying heavily on genre tropes like revenge and mentorship — the heart of the film lies in Eve’s transformation from grieving daughter to full-fledged killer.
Performance and Direction
Ana de Armas brings elegance, grit, and convincing ferocity to Eve. While the emotional stakes never quite match those of John Wick’s dog-fueled rampage, her vulnerability makes her compelling. Supporting performances from Norman Reedus, Gabriel Byrne, and the late Lance Reddick (in his final role as Charon) enrich the world without overshadowing Eve’s journey.
Len Wiseman’s direction is visually ambitious, though not as meticulously tight as Chad Stahelski’s work in the mainline John Wick films. Some early sequences feel underwhelming, but Stahelski’s influence during reshoots is evident in the film’s latter half, where kinetic camera work and stylish choreography explode across the screen.
Action and Choreography: The Heart of Ballerina
The film features a smorgasbord of well-crafted action sequences: from nightclub brawls on an icy dance floor to flamethrower duels in a Czech armory. These scenes, reminiscent of Atomic Blonde or Furiosa, elevate Ballerina beyond a mere spin-off.
Eve’s fighting style is a blend of balletic grace and ruthless efficiency, leveraging her training in both dance and death. The use of practical effects, long takes, and creative weaponry (yes, even ice skates) keeps the action fresh and engaging.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Stylish cinematography with rich neon lighting and inventive visuals.
- A female lead who brings both power and vulnerability.
- Extended lore and continuity from the John Wick saga.
- Memorable action sequences and set-pieces.
Weaknesses:
- A predictable plot that occasionally leans too heavily on fan service.
- A somewhat forgettable villain lacking the gravitas of previous antagonists.
- Pacing issues in the first act and a weaker third act.
Streaming Availability – Where to Watch Ballerina Online
As of June 2025, Ballerina (2025) is not yet available for streaming.
However, given Lionsgate’s release patterns, it is likely to become available on premium VOD platforms first (Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies) for rental or purchase. Historically, John Wick films have been made available for digital purchase within 60-90 days of theatrical release.
Predicted Streaming Services:
- Peacock: Lionsgate has partnered with Universal for previous releases.
- Hulu or Paramount+: Possible temporary licensing windows.
- Amazon Prime Video: Highly probable for purchase/rental early.
To monitor real-time streaming availability, visit JustWatch – Ballerina (2025).
For official news and updates, check out the Ballerina page on the John Wick official website.
Final Verdict: Does Ballerina Dance or Stumble?
Ballerina is an enjoyable, though not revolutionary, addition to the John Wick franchise. It thrives when it focuses on Eve’s unique perspective and immersive, visceral combat — but falters slightly with a generic revenge plot and underutilized supporting cast. While it doesn’t outshine its predecessors, it respectfully expands the lore and sets a promising stage for future spin-offs, including the highly anticipated Donnie Yen-led project.
Ana de Armas proves she can carry an action film, and with more refined direction and bolder storytelling in future installments, the Ballerina character could become a fan favorite.
Personal Review: A Dance of Style and Survival
Watching Ballerina, I was reminded why I fell in love with the John Wick universe. The film may not reinvent the genre, but it delivers on its promise: sleek violence, stylish cinematography, and immersive world-building. There’s a sense of nostalgic familiarity, but also enough freshness in Eve’s arc to keep things engaging.
While the first act is sluggish, the second act erupts with dazzling energy. The Prague setting adds texture, and the arsenal fight scenes are unforgettable. The final act doesn’t hit as hard, but it leaves enough intrigue to want more.
Ballerina (2025) may not reach the iconic status of the John Wick saga, but it’s a worthy spin-off that fans of the franchise — and action films in general — should not miss.
Stay tuned to streaming platforms like JustWatch to see when Ballerina becomes available. For now, catch it in theaters and experience the brutal beauty of Eve Macarro’s world.
What’s Next? If you loved Ballerina, keep an eye out for more spin-offs expanding the John Wick universe. Whether it’s a return of Keanu Reeves or a deep dive into the High Table, this assassin world is just getting started.
Have you seen Ballerina? Share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s talk choreography, characters, and what this means for the future of action cinema.
